www.kickstarter.com/projects/tcvresearch/harsh-vocal-research-with-the-charismatic-voice to sign up for the Vocal Research Kickstarter releasing tomorrow morning!
Along the lines of your sweet dream is a book recommendation, Australian comedian/radio presenter Kate Langbroek packed the family up and moved to Italy for 2 years, 1 year originally but Covid extended it. The book is called "Ciao Bella" I have only heard her talk about it in media because chronic pain keeps me from concentrating long enough to enjoy a book, might have to get the audiobook✌
The song is about the music industry, and how large corps abuse musicians, its a biographical peace on the Eurithmics struggles in their early days, not my interpretation, Anne is on record, the song was written in a day, she was in a terrible mood on the day, resigned to giving up on music, stewart started putting a synth drum beat together, and the vocals are her expressing hersef about how she is feeling. The cow was bought in as a comment on the absurdity of the music industry
@TheOligoclonalBand I was about 14 and can remember watching the whole thing. Elton and Axel doing bohemian rhapsody was quite something to see. Robert Plant did crazy little thing which I remember being good.
Annie is one of the most striking and serious players in an often (mostly) frivolous industry. Defying the need to be buttonholed by media commentators she was and is a fierce warrior, representing those less privaleged in the world. Massive respect for her.
I saw her recording once when I was in the business, I had never before seen anyone lay down a whole song without any flinches, wrong notes or re-records. She is absolutely astonishing.
You certainly notice these people from the get-go. Even in my father's studio, quite a few prominent musicians came through over time, but when you seen them look up and admire a newcomer, you knew you were seeing something about to bloom.
@@k5sss Any Experienced Singer, can sing without mistake, they practice before the event, memorise the lyrics, thats their Job ! Lol. So yes One takes - absolutely. Then there is the fact, that we as humans, are not metronomes -and Make mistakes everyday ! So Karen Carpenter- did have re -records on a bad day, as I am sure,did Annie Lennox. Often Adoration for an Artist- leads to Nobody willing to admit they too, are imperfect.
@@paulbrutI’ve been to hundreds of concerts, and while many were great, not one of them was studio quality singing. Most artists will record each phrase dozens of times, and the studio edits the best take of each together. That’s why it takes days to lay down each track in an album, and why they can’t replicate that sound on stage. In fact, many big artists have been caught lip syncing and/or using auto-tune at “live” concerts. And now that we have track isolation software, it’s trivial to show most of them are actually faking their performances-and shows how incredible the few are who don’t.
^ THIS! ^ That's the exact song I immediately thought Elizabeth would simply adore and be mind-blown by. Annie Lennox is a genuine Diva, her voice the opera of the modern masses, and while it has power and a certain majesty in all her songs, "No More I Love Yous" is such a unique song for giving her the ability to showcase her range and talent.
Pete Jackson snagged Lennox to sing the finale song in his Lord Of The Rings trilogy, "Into The West." Lennox gave us a powerful, emotional performance that near-perfectly sums up the sorrow, fear, hope, and joy that Tolkien's masterpiece conveys.
She also sang "Love Song for a Vampire" on the end credits of "Bram Stoker's Dracula" by Francis Ford Coppola in 1992. The most beautiful, strange song. She wrote and composed this lovely song.
The most mind-blowing thing; this entire album was recorded at home on an Fostex A-8 home studio tape recorder in 1982. Absolutely unbelievable production skills.
The nostalgia for early production is starting to get a little annoying and played out. It's not unbelievable, its what they had to work with at the time and within their budget. The fact that everyone is so reliant on post production now speaks to how lazy (or talentless) the industry has become while leaning on the crutch of post corrections and effects
@@stamfordly6463I can sympathize but, you see that expression on her face at the first beats of the song? Funny thing is there was a documentary about them and it cut to a commercial after a single "dun" and there was no other song it could be, the mixing of the effects is that distinctive.
So I'm three weeks late to the party, but I've loved this song for a long time...but seeing and hearing your enthusiasm and learning some of the technical aspects of the song just made my day. Seriously, the way you love music brightens the world. I love your channel, and I love that not only are you sharing your bubbly, overflowing love of music with us, you're teaching us things too (which is not the standard for reaction videos on RUclips necessarily; people tell us what they think and feel, but not how the song is put together and how it works, which is why I love you and Doug Helvering so much -- you teach us voice technique and he teaches music theory). May you and your family be blessed.
You have to do a reaction to "There Must Be An Angel". - Annie's incredible vocals - Operatic backing vocals - A gospel choir - A man dressed as a unicorn - A Stevie Wonder harmonica solo What more could you want?
Annie Lennox is classically trained. She studied at the Royal Academy of Music in London from 1970 to 1973, where she received training in classical flute, piano, and harpsichord. Her classical training contributed to her musicianship and her ability to incorporate a wide range of musical styles into her work. She is of course much older now, her voice shows the strain of half a century of vocal work but she is still a musicians musician. You should check out some of her tributes. There is a youtube video of her reuniting with Stewart to perform "Fool on the Hill" for Paul and Ringo in front of a star studded audience. There is another for Sting.
It shows you can't beat classically trained artists because besides talent it takes lots of time and effort which most people today aren't willing to do , they prefer the easy route .
Annie Lennox's voice is nothing short of phenomenal. Saw "them" live in 1987. She doesn't just dominate a stage, she commands the entire arena. Incredible show.
Song was written during band's lowest of the low. They just bought new synthesizer that turned out to have some inproper wiring so it sounded weird. They were broke thanks to that. So, instead sitting and crying they used that weird sound then added Annie's lyrics about being dissilusioned by music industry (Yes, it is a song about music industry) . And it turned to be a hit that turned everything around.
And the US originally refused to play the vid because it seemed like S&M to them. They also hated her androgeny - she had to produce her birth certificate, to prove she'd been born female, to gain entry.
This needs to be pinned. This needs to be a known fact. It was interesting watching this video knowing her entire story. Those two are enormous pioneers!
Try "Here comes the rain again"! Haunting, beautiful video and in my opinion vocally their best song bar none. The live version(s) are also musically fantastic, but the video is a masterpiece (like this one and "Beethoven").
Your reactions are a fun watch, because of your knowledge of vocalizations, and especially your emotional reactions to what you are hearing. You point out things that I miss, and can now enjoy, too! Thanks, Elizabeth!
Alison Moyet & related (Yaz -> Erasure) was a great sound of the 80s. As far as female vocalists, Alison & Anita Baker were really two great female voices of the 80's
Couldn't agree more! Though, maybe "underappreciated" is a better description than "underrated". No one who has actually _heard_ Moyet is likely to be caught underrating her, but lack of broader appreciation for her artistry means many people haven't even heard of her. Her output, with Yazoo (Yaz in the US) and solo, is a bit spotty as far as volume and frequency goes, but all worth a listen. My favorite is her album Hoodoo. Not a bad song on the record, but I'd say "It Won't Be Long", "This House", and the title track "Hoodoo" are a great place to start. "This House" gets her way down in her range, and "Hoodoo" shows off her distortion. I'm not as big a fan of her more pop-oriented records, but they still show off her amazing vocal skills. Another fabulous Moyet recording is her performance of the classic Christmas carol, "The Coventry Carol". Moyet has the song on her RUclips channel. It's from a Christmas album recorded by a bunch of different pop musicians in the 80's, called "A Very Special Christmas" (another great cut off that is Sting's "Gabriel's Message").
Imagine hearing this as a 14 year old when nothing like this had been heard before. I felt the same shivers as you...and was obsessed. We were so so spoilt with such amazing music in the 80s. For another amazing vocalist from the 80s you should hear Alison Moyet in Yazoo. My fave back then was Don't Go. She was the Adele of the 80s ❤
Totally agree, that combination just emphasizes the rich, soulful, humanity of Annie's voice. I feel the same way about Alison Moyet in her work with Yaz/Yazoo.
This single, and Annie Lennox's voice and sheer presence in particular, blew me away when it was released, and it never loses its appeal. It's timeless. But I've never appreciated it more than after your deep dive into the minutiae of vocal delivery, and your obvious joy in the process. Also really liked your tip-of-the-hat to Great Gig in the Sky, the studio version with Clare Torry's astounding vocal improvisation, one of my all-time favourite tracks, along with Sweet Dreams of course. Thank you.
That song came out when I was becoming fluent in English, about when I was starting to be able to follow the lyrics. That bring it into a special place in my memory.
Dave Stewart has been collaborating with so many high-level rock n rollers that his resume is packed with top-list names. Everyone credits Eurythmics with Annie Lennox and for good reason, but Dave Stewart is the genius behind their sound. He's not just a synth player, he's an accomplished musician on many instruments.
Wow! I think that last section Elizabeth kept looping out of sheer joy had at least 5 vocal layers! Main vocals + doubling, a higher register backup, a barely audible operatic oooh in the same note as the main, and the wailing. All that over just a synth drum beat. The production on this song is amazing!
This created quite the stir when it was released (in MTV's infancy). _That_ voice. _That_ song. And then _her_ and her charisma and adrgynous beauty. Instant hit! I don't anyone watched that video and then forgot about it. You don't forget Annie!! Damned, what a song.
For some reason: maybe they came out about the same time, maybe it’s the haircuts, maybe the sparse video, but I always link this song with Sinéad O’Connor singing Nothing Compares To You.
As a teenager, when this song just came out, I found myself with thousands of others like me in an amphitheater gym with spectacular acoustics for the opening of a gymnastics event. The organizers decided to open the ceremony with two songs at a volume just a notch below exaggerated. One song was Barbra Streisand - Woman in Love and the other was Sweet Dreams. By the end half the girls had tears in their eyes....... and a third of the boys too..... and it wasn't because the volume was too high. When just one ooohhh-ooo sends shivers down your spine you know you're listening to something special.
Annie was my favourite singer of her time and from the interviews I watched I can tell you, you nailed her attitude on the head. What a beautiful, strong, dynamic woman behind that incredibly powerful yet sensitive voice, what a sweetheart.
Lennox had classical music training for years before she started her career. She studied classical piano, flute and singing. She is a contralto with big range (she shows it in "There must be an angel")
I saw them in '86. I had not heard a whole lot of their music but I loved Annie Lonnox' voice. I was expecting a night of synth rock. What I got was a night of Annie and Dave absolutely rocking out. Dave Stewart is a monster on guitars and Annie's voice chimed, floated, and wailed through the night. It was amazing.
As a closeted gay boy living in a very small town in the Midwest I learned to tolerate most pop music. One evening, in my room with the radio on, the DJ said something about a new song new sound. When I heard this exact song, played for the first time in my small world… well I reacted exactly the same way you did. It was so NEW and so refreshing. I was hooked. I still 43 years later get the same feeling (even goosebumps!) whenever I hear it. My sweet dreams were to be able to be out and live my life as I really was. Thanks!!
I first heard this at a young age because of the movie Striptease. I became infatuated with Eurythmics and have loved them and Annie since. Such a strong, defining female artist for so many!
Annie was training to be a classical flutist but left school just weeks before graduating because she knew it wasn’t her destiny. She met Dave Stewart while waitressing. They bonded over music and became a couple. She nursed him out of his heroin use. They formed a band, Ths Tourists, which enjoyed moderate success but ultimately broke up - as did Annie and Dave, but they formed Eurythmics from those ashes. Now they’re in the Rock Hall of Fame. And the Songwriters Hall of Fame. A woman who planning a life as a member of an orchestra is now regarded as one of the greatest white soul singers ever. She’s a legend and an icon.
There are a lot of amazing Eurythmics songs that deserve reviewing. Annie's voice is one of my all time favorite female voices. Once you hear a selection of her songs, you can then appreciate how good she really is.
I just want to mention Dave Stewart’s choice of ‘voice’ for the synthesiser. It matches the mood and lends a certain style. There are many thousands of choices he could have gone with. This was a magical piece of the jigsaw of production.
They had very little to work with on their very basic synth. This was written and part recorded in a small flat, when they were broke, and were about to give up on music. Awesome.
Actually the second synth was already programmed with that sound. Dave was playing about on their synth and Annie grabbed another, which had the sound pre-programmed. Dave also inverted the drums.
This is the song that inspired me to play the cello -- which led me to meeting Yo-Yo Ma when he visited Salt Lake City for the first time. One of my personal favorites. Thanks for taking the time to analyze it.
So overjoyed that you've finally dipped into Eurythmics and the singing hole that is Annie Lennox. I do believe that she is severely underrated when top female vocalists are brought to to discussion. Thank you Elizabeth, that was an entrée of Awesome Sauce 👌
I agree with you. Her voice is so distinctive that you immediately know it's her. She's always been a favourite of mine, and she looks so striking, too. Definitely one of a kind. I think Cold is my favourite Annie Lennox song, both in terms of the lyrics and the vocal performance.
As a retired classical musician, who spent a fair amount of my career playing in opera orchestras, this is why I love watching this channel. Where else can you see someone bring Minimalism and Glass’s Ahknaten while analyzing Annie Lennox.
I fell in love with Annie Lennox's sound when I was 15 - i.e. just after this song first came out. Raised on classical music, what I loved the most was how this was both popular music, but also so deeply musical. And it has aged so very very well - at least in the opinion of this Annie Lennox fan.
I gotta say thank you for your channel between you and Rick Beato y'all have taught me how to really listen to music, and actually enjoy music again. You're AWESOME!
Annie Lennox is an unmitigated legend, try some of her stuff like "why", "walking on broken glass" , "little bird" , "love song for a vampire" or "into the west" trust me - any of those will knock your socks off.
Why unmitigated? It is a word used to describe something bad or unsuccessful that has no good or positive points; something like an unmitigated disaster.
GREAT reaction Elizabeth!! This has long be my #1 Eurythmics song - I was introduced to it in 1983 by my sister, I was 5 - and that synth beat was permanently stamped in my brain! As was Annie's vocals...just perfection! Not to mention that she rocks the short haircut - I've always found her beauty to be a sultry, seductive type. Just a phenomenal group! Future considerations by Eurythmics: Who's That Girl, There Must Be An Angel (Annie's voice on full display here!), Here Comes The Rain Again, Beethoven (I Love To Listen To)...so many great tunes! Cheers!
I’ve Always Loved Annie’s Voice. Her tone on this is so good. I Love Her contralto- so rich and full. Yes, I know that the processing helps••• hi-quality reverb always does. Been following You for quite awhile Elizabeth I Love your channel and your enthusiasm for music- And Your commitment to expanding your knowledge of the many aspects of music Great Work.
My "Sweet Dream" would be to able to make music, something I really passed on when I was young for reasons and now is one of the few things I kinda regret. I've now watched dozens of videos from you, and the goal of your channel is to appreciate music more, to be fascinated by music, and esp. the human voice more, at least for me, you totally succeeded. I've always been "a listener", in fact I can't "listen away", I can't stop listening if music is playing, can't "tune out", which makes it hard in certain places and events where really bad music is playing. When I was a kid there almost never was music in the background. Music was celebrated, from vinyl records or tape (not cassettes) in the evening with no distractions. So I've always been (forced to be ;-)) some kind of connoisseur when it comes to music, but your channel and insides actually have made my understanding and appreciation even deeper. Really great to see someone so... vividly taking it all in, and expressing their feelings and expertise in a world where music mostly is background noise or consumer product at best. Another "sweet dream" would be to have a nice chat with you, over a drink of your choice (spiced chocolate?). :-)
I met Dave Stewart 34 years ago. He came to see a band that was at my university and I was on the ENTS. He's a really down to earth guy, really likeable, I spent about 2 hours or so looking after him, it was a real pleasure,. He's a genuine gentleman and a super charismatic person.
Annie Lennox is a fabulous singer. Her first solo album, after the breakup of the Eurythmics, has some beautiful singing on it. "Cry" and "walking on Broken Glass" come to mind.
As always I love your review and reaction to this song. You asked for our interpretation of it's meaning. Professor of Rock does a really good review of this song, and provides incite to it and the duo. Apparently, they were down to their last bit of money when they made this and down on their luck. They were incredibly disillusioned and abused by the music industry. Their previous group, The Tourists has just broken up. Annie was laying on the floor in the fetal position crying because she felt her music career was over. Dave had just spent the last of their money on a drum machine and a Roland 101 synthesizer. He began playing this riff on the machine (which he had inadvertently recorded backwards) and Annie came to life. She came up with these lyrics. She had spoken of "real monsters" in the music business. This song is about the cruelty and abuse found in the music industry as well as in society as a whole, but there is hope ... (Hold your head up ... Keep your head up ... Movin' on ...) Ref: ruclips.net/video/XqySD0wgHfM/видео.htmlsi=ZJ_rGuJG8fsG2VDS (Professor of Rock)
I recommend the storytelling style in the Trash Theory video. And the sarcastic sense of humor is on point. Also I was shocked how regressive the response to Annie's style was which imo puts a lot of modern stuff going on today in a new light.
Thank you for that! Great analysis of Annie's vocals. I wish you could do the same with Grace Jones - La Vie En Rose or Slave To The Rhythm (PERFORMANCE) and also Swing Out Sister (Corrine Drewery) - Forever Blue or You On My Mind (PERFORMANCE). Both come with videos also. Two ladies, IMO; very underrated. Not so much as vocalists, but just in regards to almost have been forgotten. Both still out there doing it when it comes to live shows and tours, great catalogs of music and are iconic when it comes to style and fashion. For me, both have made some of the most sophisticated music. And just by chance, I hope you get to analyze two very sophisticated voices in Art-Pop! Thank you for your kind reactions to a lot of artists' that I am so privileged to have grown up listening to. You are a Divine being.
Reason for using the COW. It's a metaphor. The song is about being used by the industry and the cost of fame. The members of the band are liking themselves to livestock
Since everyone is already pinging for No More I Love Yous, I'd like to propose another favorite of mine: Love is a Stranger. Absolutely love that song, So haunting.
Can't believe this amazing tune was released over 40 years ago. It totally blew me away at the age of 12 when I bought my first single that summer holiday and played the hell out of Sweet Dreams! Annie Lennox was such a breath of fresh air and radical version of femininity to a teenager in the early 80's, thankyou! x
Incredible diction. Her pronunciation is so clean you can understand every syllable with awesome clarity. Double or triple harmony makes it that much more mezmerizing.
Annie Lennox is a shapeshifter kinda like David Bowie was. Always evolving, always different, always exquisitely artistic and dramatic. She's still doing it, too. Also, Annie Lennox is one of the great vocalists EVER, not just the '80s. The woman is AMAZING and Dave Stewart is a genius as well.
I always have a special place for artists who just made whatever the hell music they wanted two, and those two are great examples. Beck and Warren Zevon are two others that jump out.
@@leftcoaster67 I think they performed live together once at the Freddy Mercury Tribute Concert, but as far as I'm aware that's their only collaboration.
You have said that you would like to travel with your family for an extended period of time and learn the culture and music of other people's of the world in order to teach your young one the benefits of seeing and hearing the sights and sounds of others. As a young lad of 7 my mother and stepfather took us kids to live on an island ,as well as in Split, on the Adriatic. While in Split, we went to see a performance of Aida in the Roman Era Deocletian palace. It was amazing to see and hear an ancient story being performed in an ancient palace . Had such an impact on me. Still remember that experience 65 years later. Just do it if you are able to. 😎
Love the story of the recording of this. Annie and Dave were in the studio. Their work hadn't been selling well and she was depressed, thinking they'd never make it. Just sat on the floor in one corner, upset. Then he started playing around on the synth and came up with the baseline and it was a lightning moment. Recorded in a day. Made their careers. Hence "sweet dreams" the dreams of success Annie was having on that floor.
@@cobba42 they had their own studio, but no money left, and still lived together to save rent besides not being romantically involved anymore. it's a fascinating story about two very talented people giving up a lot to follow their dreams, staying true to their musical vision, and still believing in themselves and finding success
Mannnnnnn, I love this channel cause it's like we're all sitting down together and just enjoying fantastic music. Sweet dreams at the cost to others. Play the game.
The cow in the music video for 'Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)' was Dave Stewart's idea, who was inspired by surrealist artists like Salvador Dali and Luis Bunuel. "A few people were saying, 'Dave, why the cow? Annie is so good-looking'" he later commented. "Those people should go buy a copy of Purple Cow by Seth Dogin, about how to make your business remarkable. It was written 20 years after I had the purple cow in our video - which certainly did the trick and made my whole life remarkable." Not only did the cow baffle fans at the time, it also caused several logistical problems as there wasn't any major studios that could accommodate such animals, so the music video was shot in a London basement. Annie Lennox admitted filming in a basement with a cow was one of the most surreal experiences of her life, saying: "The video is a statement about the different forms of existence. Here are humans, with our dreams of industry and achievement and success. And here is a cow."
@@johnoglesby-vw7ck This 50 year old puts in a solid effort to belt her high range still....to varying success!!! one of the best vocalists to ever live!
Eurythmics were magic with vocalist Annie Lennox and musician/producer Dave Stewart breaking many music & social barriers. Annie Lennox's look in this video was both shocking & controversial as it had never been done before, "A Woman in a Men's suit & her Hair colour, what is she doing?" I loved the Eurythmics for their unique & experimental music styles as they didn't fall into the "Different song, same formula" rut that many groups do, they liked to play with what they were doing. Eurythmics - A smorgasbord of love & pain, joy & sadness, regret & hope, amazement & wonder - all served in delightful dishes of perfection. Enjoy the journey Elizabeth.
Yes! I find it hard to believe it’s been over 40 years since this song was released. It still feels fresh and relevant to me today. Annie is still a fabulous singer and I’m still a fan ❤
Shocking to the point that the Us government wouldnt let her into the country until she was able to prove that she wasnt a man doing a drag act! God knows why, whether they were scared about trans people or her passport said female and they had trouble believing it!
@@voiceofraisin3778 It threw folks. I remember my 11 year old self constantly telling my dad that it's a girl when he asked me each time he saw the video. He loved the song like everyone else. Eurythimics were huge in Canada.
There's so many legendary songs of the 80's So many great artists. The 80's is where I started to take notice and appreciate music. Would love to see more of the 80's on here. ❤
Annie Lennox has an extensive solo catalog of music also. Difficult to list them all here, but I would take a listen to "Why?", "Walking on Broken Glass?" , "No More I Love Yous", "Little Bird", and "Into the West - Closing them from Lord of the Rings".
Yes, yes, yes!!! 😃 More Annie, please... She's done so many amazing songs... "Why"... "No more I love you's"... "Into the West"... "Wonderful"... the list goes on an on... she is truly one of a kind.
@@lazurusknight2724 I just added a suggestion for Walking on Broken Glass. Went and watched the video, the layered vocals are there and I think they are all her. And Hugh Laurie is in it!
Adding to the list "Love Is a Stranger", "Here comes the rain again", "Adrian", and "Sisters are doing it for themselves". Anyone who is not put to shame singing soul next to Aretha Franklin is the real deal. Annie could do it.
To get an idea of her range, would love to see you react to “There Must Be an Angel”, “Missionary Man”, “No Fear, No Hate, No Pain (No Broken Hearts)”, or her solo song “Walking on Broken Glass”.
I'm 70. Three of the best voices in music I've heard over the last 50 years are Annie Lennox, Pat Benatar and Linda Rondstat. I know you've analyzed a Benatar song but can I recommend you listen to "Promises In The Dark." And PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE check out Linda. Her vocal range is amazing.
Anne Wilson, Dolores Riordan, Debbie Harry, Grace Slick, and Aimee Mann, along with your 3 are my top female rock voices. Pop is a different list. Linda is also partially responsible for the Eagles forming, as several, including Don and Glen were in her touring band.
For me, when this song came out, (and still to this day) it gave me a mental image that people, aren't people, in the minds of others. That to some, everyone, is just livestock, a product, to be used/enjoyed/consumed as was requisite for their own needs. Wether that be a person in power, or, someone who needs someone else to be in power. That everyone has dreams and to remember that all are valued, but make sure to value and take care of your own.
I like to say this alot lately: I love watching people do something they really love and enjoy. Nothing makes me happier and we humans need more of this. And you and your reaction to Annie is just delightful
Since we were asked about sweet dreams, I offer the following: "Sweet dreams are made of cheese, Who am I to dis a brie? Cheddar the world and the feta cheese, Everybody's looking for Stilton, Some of them want the Gouda, Some of them want the Danish blue, Some of them are emmental, Some of them want to be fondue...."
Dear Elizabeth, This was "The Eurythmics" debut L.P., Dave Stewart had studio production experience. He only had an 8-track tape machine, so he went for a minimal production using sparse instrumentation. 4 vocal tracks, 1 main synth melody, 1 bass synth (here & there), 1 bass drum, 1 snare drum. So mixed in a proper studio there's a lot of bass & melody synth that Annie sings over. The vocals were recorded well & mixed upfront with a great reverb. Annie sang all of the vocals except for the 'soulful wailing'. "Here Comes The Rain" is a full studio production by them worthy of examination.
Always loved Annie Lennox. Well I had/have cancer. Her sound energized me and gave the strength to get through it. When I lost my hair and when it came started growing back my friends would say I really rocked the Annie Lennox look.
"Sweet Dreams" is a great song to start with and I'm guessing after experiencing that you'll want much more. Next Eurythmics song I'd suggest "Here Comes the Rain Again" then "Love is A Stranger" then possibly some of Annie Lennox's solo material such as "Why". Nobody has a voice like Annie Lennox, and there hasn't been a duo quite like Eurythmics with Dave Stewart and his talent as a musician/producer/songwriter/etc.
All great recommendations, but if there's one Eurythmics number everyone should hear, it's When Tomorrow Comes. It's my go-to song when I'm having a rough day.
She is a goddess to me. One of the finest voices on the planet, and I've heard plenty. Delighted you've discovered her, and now you need to delve more. Her solo career later on may be a good choice - "Why" and "Walking On Broken Glass" from her album "Diva" are fantastic - and you need to do it with the videos - especially with "Why", which just accentuates how beautiful she, and that song is. EDIT - I really want some of that Hot Chocolate right now - it's cold here in the UK!
Along with Elizabeth Fraser and Sade, Annie Lennox is among my three favorite female vocalists from the 80s. Definitely need to add "No More I Love Yous" and "Walking on Broken Glass" to the must-listen list!
There is a dichotomy in this song. It is about positive dreams, astral travel, freedom experienced, juxtaposed with the harsh realities of life and a positive interlude/chorus about fighting to enjoy one's life in the face of adversity. Why most people feel this is more pholosophical take on our experiences with a positive lift. Its great in a nigjt club or via good speakers , good amp, with a 12" vinyl. Try getting the vinyl experience. You will find more feeling and more physicality. If you ever get to hear Annie Lennox live you will experience that natural reverb in her voice in the 'oooohs.' Annie is a legend. And Dave aswell. He recorded these vocals on an 8track!
www.kickstarter.com/projects/tcvresearch/harsh-vocal-research-with-the-charismatic-voice to sign up for the Vocal Research Kickstarter releasing tomorrow morning!
Signed up and ready.... 😇
Nobody loves cattle more than McDonalds!
Along the lines of your sweet dream is a book recommendation, Australian comedian/radio presenter Kate Langbroek packed the family up and moved to Italy for 2 years, 1 year originally but Covid extended it. The book is called "Ciao Bella" I have only heard her talk about it in media because chronic pain keeps me from concentrating long enough to enjoy a book, might have to get the audiobook✌
@@josefschiltz2192 Explain.
The song is about the music industry, and how large corps abuse musicians, its a biographical peace on the Eurithmics struggles in their early days, not my interpretation, Anne is on record, the song was written in a day, she was in a terrible mood on the day, resigned to giving up on music, stewart started putting a synth drum beat together, and the vocals are her expressing hersef about how she is feeling. The cow was bought in as a comment on the absurdity of the music industry
Annie and Bowie doing under pressure at the Freddie Mercury tribute concert is worth a watch.
Was about to say that she's filled in for Mercury when doing Under Pressure with Bowie, but you beat me to it.
Indeed!
The best part of that performance is when she's trying to be intimate with him, and he completely blanks her. It's hilarious.
I was really young then and the theatrics of that duo were a bit too much for me, but I somehow knew that I witnessed something amazing.
@TheOligoclonalBand I was about 14 and can remember watching the whole thing. Elton and Axel doing bohemian rhapsody was quite something to see. Robert Plant did crazy little thing which I remember being good.
Elizabeth discovers Annie Lennox and her world will never be the same.
Finally!!
She's heard Annie before. If no more than at the end of the 3rd Lord of the Rings film. This song however, is Annie's most well known. It will be fun!
Such is life.
@@sirkat344 Into the West makes me cry every single time
Sweet dreams are made of this!.
Annie is one of the most striking and serious players in an often (mostly) frivolous industry. Defying the need to be buttonholed by media commentators she was and is a fierce warrior, representing those less privaleged in the world. Massive respect for her.
I saw her recording once when I was in the business, I had never before seen anyone lay down a whole song without any flinches, wrong notes or re-records. She is absolutely astonishing.
Supposedly Karen Carpenter was the same.
You certainly notice these people from the get-go. Even in my father's studio, quite a few prominent musicians came through over time, but when you seen them look up and admire a newcomer, you knew you were seeing something about to bloom.
@@k5sss Any Experienced Singer, can sing without mistake, they practice before the event, memorise the lyrics, thats their Job ! Lol. So yes One takes - absolutely.
Then there is the fact, that we as humans, are not metronomes -and Make mistakes everyday !
So Karen Carpenter- did have re -records on a bad day, as I am sure,did Annie Lennox.
Often Adoration for an Artist- leads to Nobody willing to admit they too, are imperfect.
So, you have never seen anyone live. sing a Whole song,in front of an audience, from start to finish and nail it ?
@@paulbrutI’ve been to hundreds of concerts, and while many were great, not one of them was studio quality singing.
Most artists will record each phrase dozens of times, and the studio edits the best take of each together. That’s why it takes days to lay down each track in an album, and why they can’t replicate that sound on stage.
In fact, many big artists have been caught lip syncing and/or using auto-tune at “live” concerts. And now that we have track isolation software, it’s trivial to show most of them are actually faking their performances-and shows how incredible the few are who don’t.
You're gonna lose your mind when you hear " No More I Love You's ". Annie is simply amazing.
^ THIS! ^
That's the exact song I immediately thought Elizabeth would simply adore and be mind-blown by. Annie Lennox is a genuine Diva, her voice the opera of the modern masses, and while it has power and a certain majesty in all her songs, "No More I Love Yous" is such a unique song for giving her the ability to showcase her range and talent.
Nope... I never liked her version. Whenever it was on the radio, it made me long for the original by The Lover Speaks! Much more passion.
There are so many omg all I need in life is Annie Lennox and Cyndi Lauper
Or the Savage album.
@@VictorPM1550Yes couldnt agree more.
The line "who am I to disagree" as she points to the gold records... Chef's kiss
Pete Jackson snagged Lennox to sing the finale song in his Lord Of The Rings trilogy, "Into The West." Lennox gave us a powerful, emotional performance that near-perfectly sums up the sorrow, fear, hope, and joy that Tolkien's masterpiece conveys.
And she earned herself a well deserved Oscar in the process.
@@thormelsted Beating out the Sting / Alison Krauss duet - love all 3 but glad Annie got it
He also snagged Emiliana Torrini to do "Golums Song". Her voice is also beautiful and unique.
I just posted this song before seeing this comment. 100% agree.
She also sang "Love Song for a Vampire" on the end credits of "Bram Stoker's Dracula" by Francis Ford Coppola in 1992. The most beautiful, strange song. She wrote and composed this lovely song.
The most mind-blowing thing; this entire album was recorded at home on an Fostex A-8 home studio tape recorder in 1982. Absolutely unbelievable production skills.
That's the 80s ! It literally set the standard for the next 50 years of pop music and underground music
It was such a good album ad it lead to such wonderful electronic music lol
Ah but if you can actually sing and play then you don't need to feck around with endless effects and tricks, do you?
The nostalgia for early production is starting to get a little annoying and played out. It's not unbelievable, its what they had to work with at the time and within their budget. The fact that everyone is so reliant on post production now speaks to how lazy (or talentless) the industry has become while leaning on the crutch of post corrections and effects
@@stamfordly6463I can sympathize but, you see that expression on her face at the first beats of the song? Funny thing is there was a documentary about them and it cut to a commercial after a single "dun" and there was no other song it could be, the mixing of the effects is that distinctive.
So I'm three weeks late to the party, but I've loved this song for a long time...but seeing and hearing your enthusiasm and learning some of the technical aspects of the song just made my day.
Seriously, the way you love music brightens the world. I love your channel, and I love that not only are you sharing your bubbly, overflowing love of music with us, you're teaching us things too (which is not the standard for reaction videos on RUclips necessarily; people tell us what they think and feel, but not how the song is put together and how it works, which is why I love you and Doug Helvering so much -- you teach us voice technique and he teaches music theory).
May you and your family be blessed.
You have to do a reaction to "There Must Be An Angel".
- Annie's incredible vocals
- Operatic backing vocals
- A gospel choir
- A man dressed as a unicorn
- A Stevie Wonder harmonica solo
What more could you want?
Spud Gun dressed as an angel……
I remember this song and video (was a heavy MTV watcher in my youth)-beauty with the voice of an Angel. *chefs kiss*🤌
Seconded.
Totally agree. "There must be an angel" is an amazing song and probably my favourite Eurythmics song. Annie sounded amazing
It's an overdubbed track. Kinda corny. It's awesome.
Annie Lennox is classically trained. She studied at the Royal Academy of Music in London from 1970 to 1973, where she received training in classical flute, piano, and harpsichord. Her classical training contributed to her musicianship and her ability to incorporate a wide range of musical styles into her work. She is of course much older now, her voice shows the strain of half a century of vocal work but she is still a musicians musician. You should check out some of her tributes. There is a youtube video of her reuniting with Stewart to perform "Fool on the Hill" for Paul and Ringo in front of a star studded audience. There is another for Sting.
She did a lovely job on "Into the West" for the last Lord of the Rings movie.
I'll look for the video. Thanks for the suggestion.
I would recommend the youtube video of her singing Dido's Lament with the London City Voices.
I love her tribute to Stevie Wonder, "my Cherie amour". 💖
It shows you can't beat classically trained artists because besides talent it takes lots of time and effort which most people today aren't willing to do , they prefer the easy route .
Annie Lennox's voice is nothing short of phenomenal. Saw "them" live in 1987. She doesn't just dominate a stage, she commands the entire arena. Incredible show.
Song was written during band's lowest of the low. They just bought new synthesizer that turned out to have some inproper wiring so it sounded weird. They were broke thanks to that. So, instead sitting and crying they used that weird sound then added Annie's lyrics about being dissilusioned by music industry (Yes, it is a song about music industry) . And it turned to be a hit that turned everything around.
It's a really inspirational story about how sometimes being in a dark place is what it takes to create something incredible.
thanks, I was looking for this hoping someone had the right info!
@@j.f.fisher5318 yeah... talk about ''The Poet and the Pendulum''
And the US originally refused to play the vid because it seemed like S&M to them. They also hated her androgeny - she had to produce her birth certificate, to prove she'd been born female, to gain entry.
This needs to be pinned. This needs to be a known fact. It was interesting watching this video knowing her entire story. Those two are enormous pioneers!
Try "Here comes the rain again"! Haunting, beautiful video and in my opinion vocally their best song bar none. The live version(s) are also musically fantastic, but the video is a masterpiece (like this one and "Beethoven").
Excellent suggestion.
Here comes the rain again"! ; reactt PLEASE
Yes!! Great suggestion 🙌🏼 also “Walking on Broken Glass”
"Here cones the rain again" LIVE, 1986 ("revenge tour" or concert for nelson mandela), their best version live
It's my favourite Eurythmics song. I also love "Julia", a somewhat forgotten song from the soundtrack to "1984".
Your reactions are a fun watch, because of your knowledge of vocalizations, and especially your emotional reactions to what you are hearing. You point out things that I miss, and can now enjoy, too!
Thanks, Elizabeth!
If ever there was a Charismatic Voice, it belongs to Annie Lennox. Great reaction, Elizabeth.
Well said my friend 👊
There's a good reason she was chosen to sing Into The West for the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. Wistful, yet powerful and clear.
Alison Moyet should be explored on the channel. She is a highly underrated vocalist❤
Where Hides Sleep: anthem of every insomniac.
All cried out Or any YAZ/YAZOO
Alison is a phenomenal vocalist.
Alison Moyet & related (Yaz -> Erasure) was a great sound of the 80s. As far as female vocalists, Alison & Anita Baker were really two great female voices of the 80's
Couldn't agree more! Though, maybe "underappreciated" is a better description than "underrated". No one who has actually _heard_ Moyet is likely to be caught underrating her, but lack of broader appreciation for her artistry means many people haven't even heard of her.
Her output, with Yazoo (Yaz in the US) and solo, is a bit spotty as far as volume and frequency goes, but all worth a listen. My favorite is her album Hoodoo. Not a bad song on the record, but I'd say "It Won't Be Long", "This House", and the title track "Hoodoo" are a great place to start. "This House" gets her way down in her range, and "Hoodoo" shows off her distortion.
I'm not as big a fan of her more pop-oriented records, but they still show off her amazing vocal skills.
Another fabulous Moyet recording is her performance of the classic Christmas carol, "The Coventry Carol". Moyet has the song on her RUclips channel. It's from a Christmas album recorded by a bunch of different pop musicians in the 80's, called "A Very Special Christmas" (another great cut off that is Sting's "Gabriel's Message").
Imagine hearing this as a 14 year old when nothing like this had been heard before. I felt the same shivers as you...and was obsessed. We were so so spoilt with such amazing music in the 80s.
For another amazing vocalist from the 80s you should hear Alison Moyet in Yazoo. My fave back then was Don't Go. She was the Adele of the 80s ❤
Indeed, Alf & Vince were a great duo just like Annie & Dave.
The warm soulful voice of Annie Lennox in the frame of the ‘cold’ synthesizer sound is a magical combination.
Totally agree, that combination just emphasizes the rich, soulful, humanity of Annie's voice. I feel the same way about Alison Moyet in her work with Yaz/Yazoo.
Some of her tones here remind me of the backup singers for Pink Floyd. 🙂
When people talk about the best voices of the 80’s, you rarely hear Annie mentioned. Her voice is incredible!
And yet they totally broke MYV?
Annie Lennox, Elizabeth Fraser, Sade, Whitney Houston, Sinead O'Connor... for sure Annie's in that top tier from the 80s!
Bonnie Tyler
@@jeanmc4213What's MYV, please?
Alison Moyet - so different from Annie Lennox, but equally outstanding.
This single, and Annie Lennox's voice and sheer presence in particular, blew me away when it was released, and it never loses its appeal. It's timeless. But I've never appreciated it more than after your deep dive into the minutiae of vocal delivery, and your obvious joy in the process. Also really liked your tip-of-the-hat to Great Gig in the Sky, the studio version with Clare Torry's astounding vocal improvisation, one of my all-time favourite tracks, along with Sweet Dreams of course. Thank you.
I'm 54 years old and "Sweet Dreams" is one of my alltime favourite songs. Annie's voice is amazing.
That song came out when I was becoming fluent in English, about when I was starting to be able to follow the lyrics. That bring it into a special place in my memory.
45 here and yes I agree.
I'm just a little younger than you at 47 but same here, one of my favourite songs EVER.
55 in a few weeks and this song got me into the Eurythmics. Had a crush on her so bad in the 80s. Didn't i see you on the dance floor? (JK!!!)
50 here, amazing. Such a big song when it came out. Annie both scared and intrigued me at that time. In my top ten.
Dave Stewart has been collaborating with so many high-level rock n rollers that his resume is packed with top-list names. Everyone credits Eurythmics with Annie Lennox and for good reason, but Dave Stewart is the genius behind their sound. He's not just a synth player, he's an accomplished musician on many instruments.
One of my very favorite Celine Dion songs “Taking Chances” was thanks to him.
@@singingfan He wrote "Don't come around here no more" for Tom Petty too
He wrote for Alison Moyet as well.
Lily Was Here, with saxophonist Candy Dulfer, is one of my favourite instrumental pieces.
And most of the music in 'Old habits die hard' with lyrics by Mick Jagger
Wow! I think that last section Elizabeth kept looping out of sheer joy had at least 5 vocal layers! Main vocals + doubling, a higher register backup, a barely audible operatic oooh in the same note as the main, and the wailing. All that over just a synth drum beat. The production on this song is amazing!
This created quite the stir when it was released (in MTV's infancy). _That_ voice. _That_ song. And then _her_ and her charisma and adrgynous beauty. Instant hit! I don't anyone watched that video and then forgot about it. You don't forget Annie!! Damned, what a song.
For some reason: maybe they came out about the same time, maybe it’s the haircuts, maybe the sparse video, but I always link this song with Sinéad O’Connor singing Nothing Compares To You.
It is surprising to listen to her in interviews and hear the Scottish accent. Such a stunning singer. Beautiful.
Her ability to control that subtle warble to her voice and stay completely intone and on key is impeccable.
As a teenager, when this song just came out, I found myself with thousands of others like me in an amphitheater gym with spectacular acoustics for the opening of a gymnastics event.
The organizers decided to open the ceremony with two songs at a volume just a notch below exaggerated.
One song was Barbra Streisand - Woman in Love and the other was Sweet Dreams.
By the end half the girls had tears in their eyes....... and a third of the boys too..... and it wasn't because the volume was too high.
When just one ooohhh-ooo sends shivers down your spine you know you're listening to something special.
Annie Lennox has one of the greatest voices in the world. It is so satisfying
Annie was my favourite singer of her time and from the interviews I watched I can tell you, you nailed her attitude on the head. What a beautiful, strong, dynamic woman behind that incredibly powerful yet sensitive voice, what a sweetheart.
Annie's voice, for me, has always been like a vocal laser, like just being hit with a concentrated beam of pure Voice.
Lennox had classical music training for years before she started her career. She studied classical piano, flute and singing. She is a contralto with big range (she shows it in "There must be an angel")
Studied harpsichord, also.
"There must be an angel" is one of thheir best
Thanks for info.
the one I thought of too.
She didn’t study singing at the Royal College of Music
I saw them in '86. I had not heard a whole lot of their music but I loved Annie Lonnox' voice. I was expecting a night of synth rock. What I got was a night of Annie and Dave absolutely rocking out. Dave Stewart is a monster on guitars and Annie's voice chimed, floated, and wailed through the night. It was amazing.
As a closeted gay boy living in a very small town in the Midwest I learned to tolerate most pop music. One evening, in my room with the radio on, the DJ said something about a new song new sound. When I heard this exact song, played for the first time in my small world… well I reacted exactly the same way you did. It was so NEW and so refreshing. I was hooked. I still 43 years later get the same feeling (even goosebumps!) whenever I hear it. My sweet dreams were to be able to be out and live my life as I really was. Thanks!!
That sound was actually a mistake, but they ran with it. I love them both, Annie more that Dave, but they're both great.
Annie Lennox one of Scotland's great musical treasures, the Pride of Aberdeen.
Everything good that comes from Scotland is Scottish, but everything good that comes from England is British.
@@davidjohns4745 Why would you think that?
I first heard this at a young age because of the movie Striptease. I became infatuated with Eurythmics and have loved them and Annie since. Such a strong, defining female artist for so many!
Annie was training to be a classical flutist but left school just weeks before graduating because she knew it wasn’t her destiny.
She met Dave Stewart while waitressing. They bonded over music and became a couple. She nursed him out of his heroin use.
They formed a band, Ths Tourists, which enjoyed moderate success but ultimately broke up - as did Annie and Dave, but they formed Eurythmics from those ashes.
Now they’re in the Rock Hall of Fame. And the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
A woman who planning a life as a member of an orchestra is now regarded as one of the greatest white soul singers ever.
She’s a legend and an icon.
Dave never used Heroin. He used cocaine and speed.
Next one from them you have to do “Would I Lie To You.” Annie absolutely kills it.
I second this! It’s my favorite!
Oh yeah, that's another absolute classic!!
There are a lot of amazing Eurythmics songs that deserve reviewing. Annie's voice is one of my all time favorite female voices. Once you hear a selection of her songs, you can then appreciate how good she really is.
You know its going to be a classic when Elizabeth giggles and shivers
It's a classic since 40 years. But yes Elisabeth discovers the classicism of those two people !!! Unbelievable !!!❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Every video then?
@@fidacucaBut sneeze, it’s the first time.
Dudes in RUclips comments continue to be creepy
I just want to mention Dave Stewart’s choice of ‘voice’ for the synthesiser. It matches the mood and lends a certain style.
There are many thousands of choices he could have gone with. This was a magical piece of the jigsaw of production.
I cannot remember where I heard it, but the lead synth was composed by Annie herself…
They had very little to work with on their very basic synth. This was written and part recorded in a small flat, when they were broke, and were about to give up on music. Awesome.
Actually the second synth was already programmed with that sound. Dave was playing about on their synth and Annie grabbed another, which had the sound pre-programmed. Dave also inverted the drums.
@@Le3eFrereBrunetwell ... no
It's Stewart.
This is the song that inspired me to play the cello -- which led me to meeting Yo-Yo Ma when he visited Salt Lake City for the first time. One of my personal favorites. Thanks for taking the time to analyze it.
So overjoyed that you've finally dipped into Eurythmics and the singing hole that is Annie Lennox.
I do believe that she is severely underrated when top female vocalists are brought to to discussion.
Thank you Elizabeth, that was an entrée of
Awesome Sauce 👌
SEVERELY underrated. She has incredible range, control, talent, and endurance as a sensation.
Annie Lennox is an absolute marvel. Her vocal talents are truly incredible, she can sing anything flawlessly.
I agree with you. Her voice is so distinctive that you immediately know it's her.
She's always been a favourite of mine, and she looks so striking, too. Definitely one of a kind.
I think Cold is my favourite Annie Lennox song, both in terms of the lyrics and the vocal performance.
As a retired classical musician, who spent a fair amount of my career playing in opera orchestras, this is why I love watching this channel. Where else can you see someone bring Minimalism and Glass’s Ahknaten while analyzing Annie Lennox.
Gotta love Akhenaten. I like opera and metal, lol. I sing opera chorus, I know who sings better than me sigh
I fell in love with Annie Lennox's sound when I was 15 - i.e. just after this song first came out. Raised on classical music, what I loved the most was how this was both popular music, but also so deeply musical. And it has aged so very very well - at least in the opinion of this Annie Lennox fan.
I gotta say thank you for your channel between you and Rick Beato y'all have taught me how to really listen to music, and actually enjoy music again. You're AWESOME!
Annie Lennox is an unmitigated legend, try some of her stuff like "why", "walking on broken glass" , "little bird" , "love song for a vampire" or "into the west" trust me - any of those will knock your socks off.
Little Bird is a great song. Definitely a favourite of mine.
Forgot about Little Bird. Yes! Walking on Broken Glass is one of my favorites.
Missionary Man.
I LOVE walking on broken glass 😊
Why unmitigated? It is a word used to describe something bad or unsuccessful that has no good or positive points; something like an unmitigated disaster.
Now you need to catch Annie Lennox and David Bowie doing "Under Pressure" at the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert on April 20, 1992.
An amazing tribute concert that definitely honored him.
GREAT reaction Elizabeth!! This has long be my #1 Eurythmics song - I was introduced to it in 1983 by my sister, I was 5 - and that synth beat was permanently stamped in my brain! As was Annie's vocals...just perfection! Not to mention that she rocks the short haircut - I've always found her beauty to be a sultry, seductive type. Just a phenomenal group!
Future considerations by Eurythmics: Who's That Girl, There Must Be An Angel (Annie's voice on full display here!), Here Comes The Rain Again, Beethoven (I Love To Listen To)...so many great tunes! Cheers!
40 years later and I still love this song.
It’s a bit wondrous, what a song!
you gotta listen to "Here Comes the Rain Again" you just gotta.. it's haunting, melodic, really amazing
Exactly!
Yes please do that one!!
YES......watch and react to the official Video.....its epic! one of their classics
I’ve Always Loved Annie’s Voice. Her tone on this is so good. I Love Her contralto- so rich and full.
Yes, I know that the processing helps•••
hi-quality reverb always does.
Been following You for quite awhile Elizabeth
I Love your channel and your enthusiasm for music- And Your commitment to expanding your knowledge of the many aspects of music
Great Work.
Eurythmics’s “Here Comes The Rain Again” ❤ “There’s Must Be An Angel” 💜💜🎶🎶🎶💜💜
I ALWAYS forget about Here Comes the Rain Again. Going to add it to the playlist!!
"Here Comes the Rain Again" is such a fantastic blend between the synthesizer, classical instruments, and Annie's phenomenal voice.
@@evahanson7681 😃🤜⭐️🤛😃
@@Biyobi. 😃🤜⭐️🤛😃
Love Here Comes the Rain Again!
It is hard to understand now how different and new this was when it first came out. It blew people's minds.
My "Sweet Dream" would be to able to make music, something I really passed on when I was young for reasons and now is one of the few things I kinda regret.
I've now watched dozens of videos from you, and the goal of your channel is to appreciate music more, to be fascinated by music, and esp. the human voice more, at least for me, you totally succeeded. I've always been "a listener", in fact I can't "listen away", I can't stop listening if music is playing, can't "tune out", which makes it hard in certain places and events where really bad music is playing. When I was a kid there almost never was music in the background. Music was celebrated, from vinyl records or tape (not cassettes) in the evening with no distractions.
So I've always been (forced to be ;-)) some kind of connoisseur when it comes to music, but your channel and insides actually have made my understanding and appreciation even deeper.
Really great to see someone so... vividly taking it all in, and expressing their feelings and expertise in a world where music mostly is background noise or consumer product at best.
Another "sweet dream" would be to have a nice chat with you, over a drink of your choice (spiced chocolate?). :-)
I met Dave Stewart 34 years ago. He came to see a band that was at my university and I was on the ENTS. He's a really down to earth guy, really likeable, I spent about 2 hours or so looking after him, it was a real pleasure,. He's a genuine gentleman and a super charismatic person.
Annie Lennox is a fabulous singer. Her first solo album, after the breakup of the Eurythmics, has some beautiful singing on it. "Cry" and "walking on Broken Glass" come to mind.
Loving that you got to really HEAR Annie, and that you are enjoying the experience so much.
As always I love your review and reaction to this song. You asked for our interpretation of it's meaning.
Professor of Rock does a really good review of this song, and provides incite to it and the duo. Apparently, they were down to their last bit of money when they made this and down on their luck. They were incredibly disillusioned and abused by the music industry. Their previous group, The Tourists has just broken up. Annie was laying on the floor in the fetal position crying because she felt her music career was over. Dave had just spent the last of their money on a drum machine and a Roland 101 synthesizer. He began playing this riff on the machine (which he had inadvertently recorded backwards) and Annie came to life. She came up with these lyrics. She had spoken of "real monsters" in the music business. This song is about the cruelty and abuse found in the music industry as well as in society as a whole, but there is hope ... (Hold your head up ... Keep your head up ... Movin' on ...)
Ref: ruclips.net/video/XqySD0wgHfM/видео.htmlsi=ZJ_rGuJG8fsG2VDS (Professor of Rock)
Monsters and Barracudas...I wonder if she ever commiserated with Nancy Wilson.
I recommend the storytelling style in the Trash Theory video. And the sarcastic sense of humor is on point. Also I was shocked how regressive the response to Annie's style was which imo puts a lot of modern stuff going on today in a new light.
The next song should be "Would I Lie To You?" This song showcases their versatile style from "Sweet Dreams" to this song! And.. it rocks!!
Thank you for that! Great analysis of Annie's vocals. I wish you could do the same with Grace Jones - La Vie En Rose or Slave To The Rhythm (PERFORMANCE) and also Swing Out Sister (Corrine Drewery) - Forever Blue or You On My Mind (PERFORMANCE). Both come with videos also. Two ladies, IMO; very underrated. Not so much as vocalists, but just in regards to almost have been forgotten. Both still out there doing it when it comes to live shows and tours, great catalogs of music and are iconic when it comes to style and fashion. For me, both have made some of the most sophisticated music. And just by chance, I hope you get to analyze two very sophisticated voices in Art-Pop! Thank you for your kind reactions to a lot of artists' that I am so privileged to have grown up listening to. You are a Divine being.
Reason for using the COW. It's a metaphor. The song is about being used by the industry and the cost of fame. The members of the band are liking themselves to livestock
Absolutely correct. Was looking for this comment. Aimed at the music industry.
@@johnhayes6414 Same with the lyrics
And, all those “oooh”s are actually “mooo”s. U just have to listen really closely.
Heard that when Seth Godin came out with his book "Purple Cow", Dave Stewart joked that they already had one.
Plus the cow (named Cowtherine) often played the cowbell parts in their music.
"I am a woman and I AM AWESOME" is probably my favorite description of Annie Lennox. Props for that insightful observation! :-)
Since everyone is already pinging for No More I Love Yous, I'd like to propose another favorite of mine: Love is a Stranger. Absolutely love that song, So haunting.
Try the video of "Would I Lie to You" for more of that I am woman and I am awesome.
"Women are doing it on their own" is one oh her songs that symbolizes her thoughts on being her own woman.
Can't believe this amazing tune was released over 40 years ago. It totally blew me away at the age of 12 when I bought my first single that summer holiday and played the hell out of Sweet Dreams! Annie Lennox was such a breath of fresh air and radical version of femininity to a teenager in the early 80's, thankyou! x
Incredible diction. Her pronunciation is so clean you can understand every syllable with awesome clarity. Double or triple harmony makes it that much more mezmerizing.
Annie Lennox is a shapeshifter kinda like David Bowie was. Always evolving, always different, always exquisitely artistic and dramatic. She's still doing it, too.
Also, Annie Lennox is one of the great vocalists EVER, not just the '80s. The woman is AMAZING and Dave Stewart is a genius as well.
I always have a special place for artists who just made whatever the hell music they wanted two, and those two are great examples. Beck and Warren Zevon are two others that jump out.
Bowie never worked with Annie correct? What a missed chance for music.
@@leftcoaster67 They did "Under Pressure" at the Freddie Mercury Memorial Concert. Look it up. Worth while.
@@leftcoaster67Amazing duet at the Freddie Mercury tribute.
@@leftcoaster67 I think they performed live together once at the Freddy Mercury Tribute Concert, but as far as I'm aware that's their only collaboration.
You have said that you would like to travel with your family for an extended period of time and learn the culture and music of other people's of the world in order to teach your young one the benefits of seeing and hearing the sights and sounds of others. As a young lad of 7 my mother and stepfather took us kids to live on an island ,as well as in Split, on the Adriatic. While in Split, we went to see a performance of Aida in the Roman Era Deocletian palace. It was amazing to see and hear an ancient story being performed in an ancient palace . Had such an impact on me. Still remember that experience 65 years later. Just do it if you are able to. 😎
Elizabeth, PLEASE listen to "Love is a Stranger" by Eurythmics. In the same vein, Yaz "Midnight" or "Situation" would be right up your alley.
That's my favorite Eurythmics song. I love Annie Lennox.
seconding the request for Yaz "midnight" or "situation"
@@LiquidFranzThirding the request for “Midnight”
Yes please. My choice too.
Another request for "Midnight", or "Situation", or "Winter Kills", or really almost any Yaz song.
Love the story of the recording of this. Annie and Dave were in the studio. Their work hadn't been selling well and she was depressed, thinking they'd never make it. Just sat on the floor in one corner, upset.
Then he started playing around on the synth and came up with the baseline and it was a lightning moment. Recorded in a day. Made their careers.
Hence "sweet dreams" the dreams of success Annie was having on that floor.
she does point at 2 gold records on the wall behind her....
@@cuoresportivo155 Studios are most often shared or rented spaces...
@@cobba42 they had their own studio, but no money left, and still lived together to save rent besides not being romantically involved anymore. it's a fascinating story about two very talented people giving up a lot to follow their dreams, staying true to their musical vision, and still believing in themselves and finding success
The studio was a rented second floor commercial space and DIY equipment. The advantage was they could work at their own pace.
But without the video the song would not have been a mega hit. MTV had very few things to play in this era and this was in incredible rotation
Mannnnnnn, I love this channel cause it's like we're all sitting down together and just enjoying fantastic music.
Sweet dreams at the cost to others. Play the game.
The cow in the music video for 'Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)' was Dave Stewart's idea, who was inspired by surrealist artists like Salvador Dali and Luis Bunuel.
"A few people were saying, 'Dave, why the cow? Annie is so good-looking'" he later commented. "Those people should go buy a copy of Purple Cow by Seth Dogin, about how to make your business remarkable. It was written 20 years after I had the purple cow in our video - which certainly did the trick and made my whole life remarkable."
Not only did the cow baffle fans at the time, it also caused several logistical problems as there wasn't any major studios that could accommodate such animals, so the music video was shot in a London basement.
Annie Lennox admitted filming in a basement with a cow was one of the most surreal experiences of her life, saying: "The video is a statement about the different forms of existence. Here are humans, with our dreams of industry and achievement and success. And here is a cow."
The cow first shows up at "movin' on" so doesn't that mean it's actually a "moo-vin' on" pun?
..........and here's a cow
Lennox went toe to toe with Aretha Franklin - and matched her. You can't argue with those pipes, they're incredible.
Years ago I attended a Sting concert, and Lennox was the intro act. She absolutely stole the show... Sting was okay. Lennox was stunning!
As a forty year old man I will happily (and badly) belt out any Annie Lennox song while I'm driving. "Walking on Broken Glass" is especially good.
62 older dude and right there with ya!
I'll split the difference between you two. 51 and I do the same!
no matter how old walking on broken glass is just as perfect as it can be....
@@johnoglesby-vw7ck This 50 year old puts in a solid effort to belt her high range still....to varying success!!! one of the best vocalists to ever live!
Even if it was released before you were born, which means that when you first heard the song it was already well over 10 years old. 🙂
Eurythmics were magic with vocalist Annie Lennox and musician/producer Dave Stewart breaking many music & social barriers. Annie Lennox's look in this video was both shocking & controversial as it had never been done before, "A Woman in a Men's suit & her Hair colour, what is she doing?" I loved the Eurythmics for their unique & experimental music styles as they didn't fall into the "Different song, same formula" rut that many groups do, they liked to play with what they were doing.
Eurythmics - A smorgasbord of love & pain, joy & sadness, regret & hope, amazement & wonder - all served in delightful dishes of perfection. Enjoy the journey Elizabeth.
I watched this premiere on MTv and decided Annie was beautiful, regardless of her appearance ❤
Yes! I find it hard to believe it’s been over 40 years since this song was released. It still feels fresh and relevant to me today. Annie is still a fabulous singer and I’m still a fan ❤
M@@majonkie
Shocking to the point that the Us government wouldnt let her into the country until she was able to prove that she wasnt a man doing a drag act!
God knows why, whether they were scared about trans people or her passport said female and they had trouble believing it!
@@voiceofraisin3778 It threw folks. I remember my 11 year old self constantly telling my dad that it's a girl when he asked me each time he saw the video. He loved the song like everyone else. Eurythimics were huge in Canada.
There's so many legendary songs of the 80's So many great artists. The 80's is where I started to take notice and appreciate music. Would love to see more of the 80's on here. ❤
Elizabeth! The actress that made you remember Annie's look is Jane Lynch 🙌🏻
Yes I agree. I was about to write this.
What’s even more impressive is that she did all the vocals. One of my favorite female artists!!
Will be binge watching your vids after seeing a list your rest. I am lucky enough to see and hear the greats all back in the 60-70-80's.
Annie Lennox has an extensive solo catalog of music also. Difficult to list them all here, but I would take a listen to "Why?", "Walking on Broken Glass?" , "No More I Love Yous", "Little Bird", and "Into the West - Closing them from Lord of the Rings".
Yes, yes, yes!!! 😃 More Annie, please... She's done so many amazing songs... "Why"... "No more I love you's"... "Into the West"... "Wonderful"... the list goes on an on... she is truly one of a kind.
First recommendation I've seen with her solo stuff!
@@lazurusknight2724 I just added a suggestion for Walking on Broken Glass. Went and watched the video, the layered vocals are there and I think they are all her. And Hugh Laurie is in it!
Adding to the list "Love Is a Stranger", "Here comes the rain again", "Adrian", and "Sisters are doing it for themselves". Anyone who is not put to shame singing soul next to Aretha Franklin is the real deal. Annie could do it.
My life is nearly complete. Seeing Elizabeth fan-girling over AL's voice is the 2nd best thing I have EVER seen - in a musical context, of course.🤭
To get an idea of her range, would love to see you react to “There Must Be an Angel”, “Missionary Man”, “No Fear, No Hate, No Pain (No Broken Hearts)”, or her solo song “Walking on Broken Glass”.
Yes, Missionary Man!
and "Cold" played live at the BBC One Sessions: ruclips.net/video/xUruA0Zrpg4/видео.html
Annie's "Why" is iconic and the video is beautiful.
I also highly recommend the "Annie Lennox Why Live 2000" video. One of the most soulful performances ever.
Agree!! 💯
I agree too. It's absolutely my favourite but the whole Diva album is great. 🩵
The voice, and also the heart, of an angel. Annie is a blessing who just makes the world a better place.
I'm 70. Three of the best voices in music I've heard over the last 50 years are Annie Lennox, Pat Benatar and Linda Rondstat. I know you've analyzed a Benatar song but can I recommend you listen to "Promises In The Dark."
And PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE check out Linda. Her vocal range is amazing.
I'd have to include k d Lang!
agree with this comment 100%
Anne Wilson, Dolores Riordan, Debbie Harry, Grace Slick, and Aimee Mann, along with your 3 are my top female rock voices. Pop is a different list. Linda is also partially responsible for the Eagles forming, as several, including Don and Glen were in her touring band.
@@georgeharris6851I'd add Kate Bush, too.
Anne. Murray
No comment, but a suggestion: Annie Lennox and David Bowie's homage to Freddie Mercury - Under Pressure -
For me, when this song came out, (and still to this day) it gave me a mental image that people, aren't people, in the minds of others. That to some, everyone, is just livestock, a product, to be used/enjoyed/consumed as was requisite for their own needs. Wether that be a person in power, or, someone who needs someone else to be in power. That everyone has dreams and to remember that all are valued, but make sure to value and take care of your own.
I like to say this alot lately: I love watching people do something they really love and enjoy. Nothing makes me happier and we humans need more of this. And you and your reaction to Annie is just delightful
Since we were asked about sweet dreams, I offer the following:
"Sweet dreams are made of cheese,
Who am I to dis a brie?
Cheddar the world and the feta cheese,
Everybody's looking for Stilton,
Some of them want the Gouda,
Some of them want the Danish blue,
Some of them are emmental,
Some of them want to be fondue...."
😂😂😂
@@BRIDINC1972everybody is looking for Munster
@@BRIDINC1972everybody is looking for Munster
Hilarious 😂
Where’s the Parmesan!
Dear Elizabeth, This was "The Eurythmics" debut L.P., Dave Stewart had studio production experience. He only had an 8-track tape machine, so he went for a minimal production using sparse instrumentation. 4 vocal tracks, 1 main synth melody, 1 bass synth (here & there), 1 bass drum, 1 snare drum. So mixed in a proper studio there's a lot of bass & melody synth that Annie sings over. The vocals were recorded well & mixed upfront with a great reverb. Annie sang all of the vocals except for the 'soulful wailing'. "Here Comes The Rain" is a full studio production by them worthy of examination.
Always loved Annie Lennox. Well I had/have cancer. Her sound energized me and gave the strength to get through it. When I lost my hair and when it came started growing back my friends would say I really rocked the Annie Lennox look.
"Sweet Dreams" is a great song to start with and I'm guessing after experiencing that you'll want much more. Next Eurythmics song I'd suggest "Here Comes the Rain Again" then "Love is A Stranger" then possibly some of Annie Lennox's solo material such as "Why". Nobody has a voice like Annie Lennox, and there hasn't been a duo quite like Eurythmics with Dave Stewart and his talent as a musician/producer/songwriter/etc.
All great recommendations, but if there's one Eurythmics number everyone should hear, it's When Tomorrow Comes. It's my go-to song when I'm having a rough day.
Here Comes the Rain Again is my favorite Eurythmics song. Fully support this.
She is a goddess to me. One of the finest voices on the planet, and I've heard plenty. Delighted you've discovered her, and now you need to delve more. Her solo career later on may be a good choice - "Why" and "Walking On Broken Glass" from her album "Diva" are fantastic - and you need to do it with the videos - especially with "Why", which just accentuates how beautiful she, and that song is.
EDIT - I really want some of that Hot Chocolate right now - it's cold here in the UK!
The way she layers her voice in the background on her songs. It's almost orchestral. Love her!
Along with Elizabeth Fraser and Sade, Annie Lennox is among my three favorite female vocalists from the 80s. Definitely need to add "No More I Love Yous" and "Walking on Broken Glass" to the must-listen list!
And two of those are Scottish!
I'd definitely like to see our host check out her namesake:
ruclips.net/video/HFWKJ2FUiAQ/видео.html
There is a dichotomy in this song. It is about positive dreams, astral travel, freedom experienced, juxtaposed with the harsh realities of life and a positive interlude/chorus about fighting to enjoy one's life in the face of adversity. Why most people feel this is more pholosophical take on our experiences with a positive lift. Its great in a nigjt club or via good speakers , good amp, with a 12" vinyl. Try getting the vinyl experience. You will find more feeling and more physicality. If you ever get to hear Annie Lennox live you will experience that natural reverb in her voice in the 'oooohs.' Annie is a legend. And Dave aswell. He recorded these vocals on an 8track!